France 2 Francs (Morlon Type)

Country of Origin: France, Fourth Republic

Year of Issue: 1947

Denomination: 2 Francs

Composition: Aluminum

France 2 Francs (Morlon Type)

Brief Description

A lightweight aluminum coin featuring a profile of Marianne on the obverse and two cornucopias on the reverse.

Historical Significance

Minted during the transition to the Fourth Republic after WWII, these aluminum coins reflect the post-war economic atmosphere and the inflation that necessitated cheaper metal compositions.

Estimated Value

$0.50 - $2.00 in circulated condition; $5.00 - $15.00 in high uncirculated (MS) grades

Care Instructions

Avoid cleaning as aluminum is soft and reacts easily to chemicals and abrasives. Store in a dry, PVC-free environment to prevent 'aluminum rot' or surface oxidation.

Mint Mark

B (Beaumont-le-Roger) or no mark (Paris); the 1947 issue commonly features the 'B' mint mark or no mark. This specific coin has a cornucopia and wing privy mark of the Paris Mint masters.

Mintage & Rarity

Common; over 160 million were minted in 1947 (combined across mint types).

Weight & Diameter

2.2 grams / 27 mm

Edge

Plain

Apparent Grade

Fine to Very Fine. There is noticeable wear on the high points of Marianne's hair and the cornucopias, and some surface spotting/discoloration (toning or light corrosion).

Obverse (Front)

Left-facing profile of Marianne wearing a Phrygian cap adorned with a wreath. Text: 'REPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE'. Designed by Pierre-Alexandre Morlon.

Reverse (Back)

Central denomination '2 FRANCS' flanked by two cornucopias (horns of plenty). Motto: 'LIBERTE EGALITE FRATERNITE'. Year '1947' at the bottom.

What Drives This Coin's Value

Condition is the primary factor. Because they were minted in massive quantities in aluminum, only coins in pristine 'Mint State' carry a premium.

Similar Coins

Often confused with the smaller 1 Franc or the larger 5 Francs of the same 'Morlon' design, or the earlier bronze/aluminum-bronze versions of the 2 Francs minted between 1920-1941.

Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags

Aluminum coins are rarely counterfeited due to low value, but check for correct weight (approx 2.2g) and crispness of the 'Morlon' signature below the bust.

Notable Varieties & Errors

Look for the version without a mint mark (Paris) vs the 'B' mint mark (Beaumont-le-Roger).

Created At: 2026-04-22T09:40:31.916290